Akeelah Omokhua

Brams United Soccer Club

Akeelah has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the field. She has earned multiple Player of the Match honors at FTF Hamilton events, five MVPs at Team Combines, and First Team selections at both Spring and Fall FTF Showcases in 2024. Her team accomplishments include an undefeated OPDL U17 season, a League Cup Championship with Markham City FC, and an Ontario Cup title in 2023. She was also named to the FTF Top 60 All-Star list and invited to the Provincial Excel program.

Academically, Akeelah has been on the Honour Roll from Grades 9 to 11 and was accepted into the SIUE Honours Program. She’s actively involved in her community, volunteering with Brams United Soccer Club as a referee, assistant coach, and event helper. She’s contributed to initiatives like the Dr. Simones Food for Children Drive and the Peel Regional Police’s Giving Back for School Event.

Certified as an Entry Level Referee since 2021, Akeelah continues to officiate across multiple clubs. She has also committed to playing NCAA Division 1 Women’s Soccer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, making her a standout nominee and a true role model for youth in Ontario.

Ambreena De Menech

NorWest Optimist Community Soccer

From overcoming fear to becoming a leader, Ambreena has shown remarkable growth through soccer. Her journey began when she was mistakenly invited to tryouts while watching her brother—an invitation she bravely accepted despite being afraid of the ball. She soon stepped up as goalkeeper when no one else would, showing early signs of courage and commitment.

During the pandemic, she realized how vital soccer was to her mental and social well-being, a realization that fueled her passion. At just 15, she became a certified coach and referee, mentoring young girls through the She’s Got Goals program. She’s a vocal advocate for keeping girls in sport, personally reaching out to those at risk of dropping out.

In 2024, she led her club’s participation in the Same Game Gender Equity Challenge and launched Charity Kicks, a fundraiser in memory of a classmate lost to intimate partner violence—raising $500 for Anova Women’s Shelter and sparking community dialogue. With nine years at the club, she’s now a lead in gender equity, a certified referee, and a driving force behind programs like Girls Play Soccer London and She CAN Coach. She is pursuing an Undergraduate Degree in Medical Sciences at Western University with the long term plan to become a Medical Doctor. Her dedication to sport, equity, and community makes her a truly deserving nominee.

Michela Franzé-Da Silva

Oakville Soccer Club

Michela has been a part of the Oakville Soccer Club since the age of 3, growing through the ranks from House League to the Advanced Development Program and finally the Representative Development Program. Her dedication didn’t stop as a player—she’s since become a standout coach and mentor. In 2024, she was named House League Coach of the Year for her work with the Girls U13 team and has been a vital staff coach and facilitator in programs like Lil’ Oscars, Active Start, and Skill Development.

Michela holds both her Active Start and FUNdamentals licenses, earning the latter while on crutches—showcasing her unwavering commitment. She also holds her Game Leader certification. Known for her energy, leadership, and problem-solving, Michela is a role model to players, parents, and peers alike. Off the field, she’s a consistent honourroll student with a 93% average and has earned multiple academic and athletic awards. With aspirations to become a teacher, Michela is already shaping the next generation—on and off the pitch.

Prestyn Popovic

Thunder Bay Chill 

Prestyn Popovic is a standout midfielder for the Thunder Bay Chill and a committed NCAA Division II athlete at Thomas More University. His soccer journey began at age three and has grown into a lifelong passion. Prestyn has played with the Chill for over 15 years, captaining the Reserve Team for the past two seasons and volunteering with younger age groups—coaching, officiating, and mentoring players to foster a love for the game.

He’s been a consistent starter on his high school soccer team since Grade 9, earning the High School Coaches Award and being named Athlete of the Year. Prestyn was also invited to the Ontario Xcel Program three years in a row, recognizing his provincial-level potential. Academically, he maintains a 4.0 GPA and has been on the Honour Roll throughout high school, demonstrating discipline and excellence both on and off the field.

Prestyn’s leadership, dedication, and impact make him a truly deserving recipient. 

Piper Stephenson

Petawawa Minor Soccer Club

Piper has dedicated 14 years to soccer, building a foundation of resilience, leadership, and determination. Starting at age three, she’s competed at both school and club levels, earning titles such as EODSA League Champion, Gael Cup Champion, and an OFSAA Antique Bronze medalist. She’s also mentored younger athletes, coaching a U10 girls’ team and helping foster their love for the game.

Beyond the pitch, Piper is a committed student, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science at the University of Ottawa. She’s maintained a strong academic record, earning Honour Roll status, Highest Standing awards, and recognition as a Lifelong Learner.

Her leadership shines through organizing events like the Terry Fox Run, which raised over $12,000, and leading school-wide initiatives including athletic banquets and dodgeball tournaments. She’s also deeply involved in her community, volunteering during the pandemic and supporting local fundraisers and events. Piper’s ability to balance academics, athletics, and service makes her a truly deserving winner.

Selena Lancaster

Vaughan Soccer Club

Selena Lancaster is a dynamic and hardworking midfielder who has played with Vaughan Soccer Club since the age of four. Her commitment to the game has led her to compete at the highest levels, including representing Dominica’s U-20 and Senior Women’s National Teams in Concacaf tournaments. She currently plays for Vaughan’s League2 Reserve and OPDL U17 teams, and has committed to Dalhousie University for NCAA soccer in September 2025.

Selena has earned multiple Player of the Match honors at top showcases like FTF and FC Durham, and was selected for the Ontario Provincial Xcel Team, making the starting 11. Her tournament success includes podium finishes at the FTF Showdown, Blue Chip Showcase, and Ontario Soccer Cup.

Off the field, Selena is equally accomplished—earning Honour Roll status every year of high school and receiving awards in Physical Education, Social Science, and Drama.Selena’s talent, discipline, and international experience make her a standout athlete and a strong role model for aspiring players.

Olivia Francis

Brams United Soccer Club

Olivia Francis is a standout student-athlete who has committed to play NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer at St. Peter’s University in New Jersey. A dedicated player since childhood, Olivia has earned numerous accolades, including Rookie Athlete of the Year at St. Marguerite D’Youville SS, multiple Player of the Match honors at FTF Combines, and top rankings in the FTF Class of 2025. She’s also been invited to the Provincial Excel Program and was called up to the Philippines U17 Women’s National Team in 2024.

Olivia’s leadership extends beyond the pitch—she’s a certified referee, a volunteer coach for girls aged U6–U12, and an active mentor through programs like BMO Girls Play On. She’s also involved in school life through the Athletic Council, Yearbook, and Newspaper Committees, while competing in multiple sports including soccer, basketball, and track.

With a strong academic record and a passion for empowering others, Olivia is a well-rounded role model and a truly deserving winner.